Oral Pathology

The inside of the mouth is lined with mucosa – a soft skin that is both smooth and coral pink in color. If you notice any changes in the appearance of the mucosa, it could be the sign of an oral disease or pathology. While the most serious oral pathology is oral cancer, there are other oral pathologies that can pose a significant threat to your health, including:

Geographic tongue

Hairy tongue

Median palatal cyst

The following changes in the mouth may be signs of a pathological process or cancerous growth:

Difficulty swallowing or chewing

Red (erythroplakia) patches in the mouth

White (leukoplakia) patches in the mouth

A lump or thickening on the mucosa

A sore that bleeds easily and doesn’t heal in a timely manner

Chronic sore throat

Hoarseness

These symptoms can occur anywhere on or around the mouth, including the palate, gum tissue, lips, cheeks, face, and neck. Oral pathology, including oral cancer, is not always accompanied by pain, but if you do suffer from any oral or facial pain, you may be at risk for oral cancer.

While we do screen for oral cancer, during every six-month recall appointment, it is also important to perform a self-examination each month to determine if there are any changes, including lumps and sores, in the mouth. If you do notice any changes, please contact Douglas Hauck DDS, Inc..

Treatment of Pathological Diseases

While most oral pathologies are not life threatening, oral cancer is. This is why it is so important to visit Dr. Douglas Hauck or another trusted healthcare professional if you notice any changes in your mouth. When diagnosed in its earliest stages, oral cancer survival rates are around 80%. At that point, our dentist can help you learn more about your oral cancer treatment options.

For less serious oral pathologies, there are several options available, such as:

Antibiotics

Diluted hydrogen peroxide mouthwash

Oral surgery

If you are experiencing any pain or changes in the mouth and to learn more about treatment for oral pathology in Newport Beach, California, please contact our dental office to schedule your appointment.